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460

Make a Flash Drive Laptop with *LONG* Battery Life ! ! !

Laptop Power submitted by reg 02/26/07

Make a 12.1 Inch Flash Drive Laptop for $599.

No Hard Drive, No CD Drive - put them in the base station / docking station.

The 12 inch laptop will have 2 internal USB 2.0 connectors, so you could plug in two standard USB 2.0 High Speed Flash Memory Sticks. (a double slot so the mem-sticks don't stick out of the case.)

Comes standard with one 8 GB memory stick with
Puppy Linux Pre-Installed .

Puppy Linux is FAST! Runs Completely in RAM.

Have 4 more USB 2.0 connectors, widely spaced along the left hand side of the laptop - hook up 4 more flash drives, or printers/scanners/cameras -etc. any four USB 2.0 high speed devices.

Tech Specs:
12.1" 32 bit color LCD Screen, ULV CPU at 2.0 GHz.
1 GB RAM standard, 2nd GB slot available for max of 2GB.
6 USB 2.0 High Speed connectors (4 external, 2 internal)
Built in graphics & Video accelerator hardware.
All Graphics, Audio, Video Linux drivers included.
1 PCMCIA slot (for CF cards, microdrives, etc)
1 Express Card slot t (for newer, faster PC cards)
White LED light on screen lid that illuminates the keyboard (like IBM thinkpads)
HDMI, VGA output, Component Video Input + Stereo Audio input.
Stereo Microphones mounted in the coners of the screen lid.
Rotating XGA Camera for video and pictures.
Audio headphone jack on front AND on back.
Docking station expansion port connector.
14 Hour Battery Life.
(Remember - no hard drive, no CD drive in laptop, and using ultra low voltage CPU with no fan running when idling...)
WiFi Wireless Networking.

Configure Puppy Linux with popular software, such as GIMP and Open Office and have it pre-installed with
all the hardware drivers on the 1st USB flash drive. Puppy Linux already comes with all these Applications .

Along with the Ultra Life Notebook, offer a base - docking station,
with configurations of Hard Drive (160 GB up to 1 TB) and
CD Drive (DVD, or Dual Layer DVD burner), and port replication.
(4 USB 2.0 High Speed Hub, Bluetooth KB/Mouse support)

SAMSUNG has a Flash Laptop,
it is time Dell caught up with the Marketplace. 3 Comments »

290

Stop the call-center-merry-go-round

Service and Support submitted by brmorris 04/02/07

I am a computer technician and I primarily recommend Dell to my customers. I am growing increasingly dissatisfied with the customer service that I receive, however. On many occasions now, I have called to extend a warranty and the customer service agent will transfer me to the Service Sales department, which in turn tells me that it is the wrong department, then they transfer me somewhere else, etc., etc. Today they put me into the "Lost Caller" department, which transfered me, and then "click," dial tone.

Here are my recommendations:
1. Do not segregate departments so much that no one can help the customer. For example, give someone in the mid-sized business department the ability to help a small-biz customer, EPP, or home. Obviously if there is a major difference in the way they do their job, that can't happen, but extending a warranty is no different for all the types of customers.

2. Have top-level managers and/or executives periodically call with a pre-determined customer service need and have them see for themselves what it is like for a regular customer -- they will be shocked!

3. Have a "Troubleshooter Team" that will do whatever it takes to help the customer if they ride the call-center-merry-go-round for more than 3 trips. 1 Comment »

542

"Refer a Friend" Program

Advertising and Marketing, Dell Community submitted by john_saddington 02/19/07

Would love to see a "Refer a Friend" Program, which would help build Dell's client base as well as reward "grassroots" marketing through social groups, peers, and the community!

Tons of things could be encapsulated and joined together with this initiative and program! 4 Comments »

560

EASY Refund Form for MS Vista and Works

Service and Support submitted by reg 03/26/07

.
<font>

For all the people who just bought a Vista Dell,
Tried it,Hated it, and uninstalled it.

How about an Easy way to get your 15% rebate for MS software?

A simple on-line form, where Dell customers could type in their
purchase order #, machine ID Tag, and personal information.
Get an RMA reference number from Dell,
and mail back the CDs and Key Code Cards.

MS Works is Useless if you already have MS Office or Open Office:


http://www.openoffice.org/< Dell customers get cash back, or at least a Dell Gift card to buy something
they DO want.

Dell Germany gives refunds to their customers.

Dell should make it Easy for all customers to get the most value out of their new Dells.

Thank you.
</font> 9 Comments »

520

Do not distinguish between home, home office, small business, and enterprise

Dell Web Site submitted by cosmotic 02/17/07

It is hard enough finding the product in the right store, let alone figuring out the differences between them. I never buy products from the home department just because the tech support is in India. 2 Comments »

606

Dont Transfer Me !

Service and Support submitted by i_own_dell 02/16/07

I am sorry if i got in wrong department...but hey dont transfer me...it takes time to reach the next person and get another transfer....why dont you resolve me issue....whether it is my desktop or laptop or xps...support me right then and there...dont push me to someone else.... 6 Comments »

2300

Build a Dell Linux Distribution

Linux, New Product Ideas, Desktops and Laptops submitted by jemfisher 02/20/07

With the wave of support for the Linux kernel to power desktop PC's, I think its time for a company with the quality build that Dell has to provide users with PC's that work for them. The adoption of Linux to power Dell PC's would give Dell a greater freedom to move forward with innovation. With the adoption of a Linux kernel Dell would be able to sell PC to meet users' demands. Businesses demand different machines than home users, students demand different machines again, machines targeted at younger users, etc. 100 Comments »

1230

BOYCOTT VISTA!

Operating Systems submitted by reg 03/21/07

Dell Dudes,

Microsoft reserves the right to spy on your computer.

The more you learn how Microsoft EULA has the right to enter your computer, check out what software you are using, and also use the DRM tools in Vista to prevent you from seeing files, data, videos, or hearing 'unauthorized' music files - the more you get a sick, sinking feeling in your gut that someone else has taken control of your machine.

US Federal Government Agencies have BANNED Microsoft Vista, and for good reason.

The Microsoft EULA takes control of your machine, stating directly: "this agreement only gives you some rights to use the software. Microsoft reserves all other rights." Even potentially deleting files or disabling programs.

Compared to the costs of Apple OS X or any Linux Distribution,

The Costs of Windows Vista are Unacceptable.

Keep in mind that Microsoft was convicted by U.S. Courts for its criminal behavior, and is being forced to pay $4 million A Day by the European Union for being in violation of their judgments.

Anti-freedom Vista takes away your rights - do you want to Confirm or Deny?

BOYCOTT WINDOWS VISTA MACHINES!

If you support Linux, freedom, democracy, or just want to keep control of Your own machine that You buy with Your own money, PROMOTE this idea now.

Microsoft - Where in the world did you think you were going to go today?

Let Dell know - You Don't Want Windows Vista. 995 Comments »

1611

Fix your chat wait times. 20 minutes is unacceptable!

Service and Support submitted by baylor921 02/16/07 **REVIEWED**

For an internet company, your organization acts like it just entered the online market. Chatting with agents is the way of the future and waiting 20 minutes for a rep is terrible service. Especially for people who have an XPS or a $5000 workstation model.

I've gotten much quicker service at other internet businesses.

Thanks for the allowing my input.


We are committed to handling chat requests in a timely manner. Most times of the day, a customer should be greeted by an agent within one minute.




14 Comments »

2260

OS Reinstall CD's

Service and Support submitted by xhotardx 02/24/07

How about auctually including real install cd's for the original OS. So when you have to reimage I dont have to spend 2 hours uninstalling stuff that I dont want. Why can these not be provided for free? If a consumer is paying for a license there is no reason that you cant front the 4 cents and give them a copy of that software (even microsoft is cool with that). 10 Comments »

3531

Universal power adapter (power supply) for all Dell products

Accessories (Keyboards, etc.), Laptop Power submitted by rguptaos-dyndns 02/19/07

How many of us have to buy multiple “AC / DC Adapter or power bricks” for each of electronic devices and laptops? I have power supply adapter for home, office and travel bag… about 2-3 of these for my laptop, cell phone and external hard disk or other devices I use.

I have background in electrical engineering and I know technically it is possible to use the same power supply / adapter unit with some intelligence built in to power up cell phones, hard-disk, laptops, speakers, mp3 players etc. I also understand that the accessories are one of the most profitable business aspects for electronic companies like Sony and Dell.

Dell wants to be the leader and differentiator? Well...

>> How about a smart universal power adaptor for all DELL products that intelligently recognizes the product and supplies the appropriate power.
One power supply and connector for all products!!!

I know technically it is possible – I did design this and did work on the patent application but, did not file because I got focused on some other activities. I am pretty sure there are enough smart engineers at Dell to design this. If you want a head start contact me for details. 9 Comments »

2437

Rewards for Dell Shoppers

Dell Web Site, Sales Strategies submitted by john_saddington 02/17/07

Dell should provide a way for customers to accrue rewards, or points, for purchases! I have bought a number of Dell computers over the years, and would love to see some appreciation for my allegiance!

For example, every time I buy a computer, I get 100 points. After... say, 300 points, I get 50% off my next purchase, or something to that effect.

Just like Credit Card Rewards! 17 Comments »

12547

The Clutter Is Forming: We Need A Moderator

Dell Community, IdeaStorm submitted by googideas 02/17/07 **IMPLEMENTED**

Approximately 48 hours into its life, and Ideastorm is filling up with repetition and senseless comments. Since moderation cannot be exercised by the participants a moderator a la Dell Employee must put up her hand. Or his hand. We aren't picky!

One: Repeating the same ideas from earlier posts is a pain to the reader and a waste of space and time. These should be removed.

Two: Suggestions which are without applicability to the issues at hand should be removed: one post states that "Dell should set up Dell Pay to compete with Paypal." Sigh. Why?

For what unique purpose? Dell's business is not online payments, in the same way Apple's is not selling music (they sell music at a loss to sell iPods at a gain). There is no benefit to Dell and it meets no need.

Since this format is experimental and fully funded by Dell, I encourage Dell to cut the wheat from the chafe and remove as much as they see fit. For all of the "I have rights" and "freedom of speech" advocates, you don't. This is a place where the good keep going and the bad go out.

The less posts the better. It provides Dell what they want: the opportunity to test strong ideas properly. Without the removal of clutter, the good ideas will by dint of the time they are posted (e.g. 3am) and the increasing volume of posts, inevitably suffer at times the forest's size despite the grandeur of the tree in question.

I may be going against the grain of popular opinion, but you add your vote to this post if you believe in the goal of this site, and not the freedom it offers to utter the first inane thing which comes to mind.
jackie_c is IdeaStorm's moderator. Also, for any mod updates, check out the talk with the moderator blog at the top of the page.




144 Comments »

6215

"Trade In" Program

Advertising and Marketing, Environment, Sales Strategies submitted by john_saddington 02/19/07

I'd love to see a "Trade In" Program and/or initiative, where a customer who's been a long time customer could trade in an old system for a new one, or at least, a good sized discount.

I've got an old laptop and seriously need a new one. It's been out of warranty for a long time, but, would love to get a discount for a new one if I could trade it in.

This would also be environmentally healthy! 34 Comments »

8986

Do not hire nontechnical people for techsupport

Service and Support submitted by jbrogers 02/17/07

This is the main problem with the India call centers - they have no idea what they are doing. They are obviously reading a scripted diagnosing tool and have no personal knowledge of computing issues.

I have both home and business accounts with Dell. When I call in for support on my Business account, I get a good old-fashioned American geek, who instantly understands that I am fairly technical, and doesn't treat me like an idiot.

The Indian call centers, not having knowledge themselves, do not recognize that I know anything, and treat me like an idiot as they read from the diagnosis tool. Yeah, I know the computer is plugged in. Yeah I know that I have internet connectivity. Sheesh.

33 Comments »

5584

A single DVD that will install correct drivers on any model of Dell PC

Accessories (Keyboards, etc.), Desktops and Laptops submitted by danwarne 02/18/07

I've just posted an opinion editorial about this at APCMag.com -- http://apcmag.com/node/5359. Seems to me that a largely overlooked feature of Apple Boot Camp is the driver CD that will install drivers onto any model of Intel Mac with no searching/downloading required by the user. This could be a 'Dell crushing feature' unless Dell comes up with something similar. It has to be this easy: one click, and all drivers for that machine are identified and installed. And the CD or DVD image has to be downloadable. 18 Comments »

7654

Organize the sales pages by need, not product line

Dell Web Site submitted by sernovitz 02/03/07 **IMPLEMENTED**

The Dell shopping experience is all about Dell -- not the user. Currently, you have to walk through each product line, narrow by model, etc.

This isn't very useful to my mom, or anyone new to Dell. Even the latitude/inspiron choice is never explained.

Start with features -- walk the user through the choices until they get the perfect PC.

What size do you want? What are you going to do with it? Etc.


Check out our new Assistance Seeker to shop by what you need, not by price!




33 Comments »

118093

Have Firefox pre-installed as default browser

Software submitted by robinjfisher 02/19/07 **REVIEWED**

Does what it says on the tin! Most people only use IE because they aren't aware of other browsers - they think Internet Explorer is the Internet! What would really drive take up of alternative browsers is if Firefox was pre-installed as the default browser so that when people look for the "Internet" in Windows, they are using FF.
Firefox advocates at Dell have initiated discussions and driven action around exploring alternative internet browsers and experiences. As you can tell from our response to the Linux community, open source continues to be a part of our conversations about new products and services.





1198 Comments »

840

Moderate or ability to vote-out a topic

IdeaStorm submitted by jlauro 02/27/07

Many of the items need to be cleaned out. I will not even talk about the problem of duplicate item. For example, in the Servers and Storage area, we can easily find several ideas that are laptop specific. Why bother having categories if they are not enforced, and there doesn't appear to be a way to vote misplaced articles out. Many times the ideas are good, the only problem is they spammed across all categories. 20 Comments »

2784

BloatWare Uninstall- single click software remove

Software submitted by raymc 02/19/07

I understand the importance to Dell of the additional revenue stream collected from the suppliers of 'free' bundled software. So to shift the decision making process onto the customer, can Dell make the removal of such bundled software a single click choice 'remove bloatware' on first power-up of new products? Ergo Revenue stream retained and customer choice satisfied! 6 Comments »



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